The New York City Commission on Women's Issues (formerly the Commission on the Status of Women) was established by Mayoral Executive Order in 1975 as an advisory body to the Mayor on matters impacting the lives of New York City women. Currently, the Commission serves as an important vehicle through which women and families can connect with City services that support and address their needs.

The Commission is also dedicated to making a significant difference in the lives of New York City women by working with the corporate sector to establish public-private partnerships that support women's initiatives.

Programs and initiatives on which the Commission has partnered and developed include NYC Women's Resource Network, NYC Ladders for Leaders (initially launched as a pilot program called NYC GirlsREACH), NYC Family Guide, NYC Small Business Awards, and Step Out NYC. In March 2010, the Commission, in partnership with Barnard College, launched Mentor it Forward, a series of year-long "speed mentoring" events wherein younger women will be able to meet with successful professional women leading the way in New York City who otherwise don't have the time to commit to traditional mentoring programs requiring lengthy time commitments.

The Commission's membership is drawn from all sectors of the New York City population and is representative of individuals from a variety of fields and professions. The Commission consists of a Chair and no less than thirty Commissioners appointed by the Mayor. The Commission also includes the Commissioner of the New York City Commission on Human Rights and the past Chairs of the Commission who serve as ex-officio, non-voting members. Commissioners serve three-year terms without compensation. An Executive Director, appointed by the Mayor, serves as the City Hall liaison to the Commission assisting in the coordination and implementation of the Commission's programs and activities.

The Commission also meets on a quarterly basis with the Women in Government Liaisons Committee, which is composed of senior representatives from other agencies and departments within city government. Representatives bring to the Committee knowledge and perspectives unique to their individual fields, and serve as a source from which the Commission can better understand issues affecting women throughout the city. The Committee also serves as a venue through which the Commission can best ensure that City agencies provide special attention to meeting the needs of women throughout the City.

Commission supported research and programs are funded through its not-for-profit corporation, The Mayor's Fund to Advance New York City.